If you have been patiently waiting for the mini FXI Cotton Candy PC to start shipping, you will be pleased to know that the day has finally arrived, and shipping has now commenced.
FXI first unveiled their new Android powered Cotton Candy mini USB stick sized PC almost a year ago, and shipping was expected to commence during May of this year.
Technical Specifications and Features
To recap, the FXI Cotton Candy mini PC is fitted with a USB port on one end and an HDMI connection on the other. Inside, it’s powered by an ARM Cortex-A9 processor, supported by 1GB of RAM, and runs Google’s Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich (ICS) operating system. However, due to the Cotton Candy being sold as a developer PC, it doesn’t include access to Google’s Play Store for applications.
Other features of the FXI Cotton Candy mini PC include ARM Mali 400 graphics, and connectivity provided by both WiFi and Bluetooth connections. This makes it versatile for a range of uses, from transforming any HDMI-equipped screen into a smart TV to serving as a portable computing solution for developers and tech enthusiasts.
Potential Uses and Applications
The FXI Cotton Candy mini PC opens up a world of possibilities. For instance, it can be used to turn any HDMI-compatible display into an Android-based smart device. This is particularly useful for presentations, digital signage, or even just streaming media on a larger screen. The device’s compact size and portability make it an excellent choice for those who need computing power on the go.
Moreover, the Cotton Candy can be a valuable tool for developers. Since it runs on Android 4.0 ICS, developers can use it to test applications and software in a real-world environment. The lack of access to Google’s Play Store might seem like a limitation, but it also encourages developers to sideload apps and experiment with different software configurations.
Another interesting application is in the realm of education. Schools and educational institutions can use the FXI Cotton Candy to provide students with affordable computing devices. Its small form factor and ease of use make it an ideal choice for classroom settings where space and budget are often limited.
Additionally, the device’s ARM Mali 400 graphics make it capable of handling basic gaming and multimedia tasks. While it may not compete with high-end gaming consoles or PCs, it offers a decent performance for casual gaming and media consumption.
Comparisons and Market Position
When compared to other mini PCs and dongle-sized computers on the market, the FXI Cotton Candy holds its own quite well. Devices like the Raspberry Pi and Intel Compute Stick offer similar functionalities, but the Cotton Candy’s unique combination of USB and HDMI connectivity, along with its Android operating system, sets it apart.
The Raspberry Pi, for example, is renowned for its versatility and extensive community support, but it primarily runs on Linux-based operating systems. The Intel Compute Stick, on the other hand, often comes with Windows pre-installed, which might be more familiar to some users but also comes at a higher price point.
The FXI Cotton Candy strikes a balance between affordability, functionality, and ease of use. Priced at around $199, it offers a competitive alternative for those looking to explore the capabilities of a mini PC without breaking the bank.
The FXI Cotton Candy mini PC is a versatile and innovative device that caters to a wide range of users, from developers and educators to casual users looking to enhance their multimedia experience. Its unique features and competitive pricing make it a noteworthy addition to the growing market of mini PCs.
Source: Liliputing
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